Missouri vs Kansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.8 vs 90.1); Missouri has a 1.5-point lower tax burden and has a 9% lower violent crime rate. Kansas scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 16% lower in Kansas ($1,205 vs. $1,443 in Missouri).
- Total tax burden is 16% lower in Missouri (7.83% vs. 9.33% in Kansas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 16% lower in Kansas ($12,741 vs. $15,080 in Missouri).
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.1 pts | 51.0#34 of 50 · C+ | 55.1#27 of 50 · C+ | -4.1 pts | — | KS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$4,596 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$4,596 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,276 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$18,276+7% | $368,697 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.5 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -39 (-9%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -39-9% | 328 | MO |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,925 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$3,925-5% | $80,903 | KS |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +6,066 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +6,066 | -33 | MO |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Missouri or Kansas better to live in?
Kansas scores higher overall: 55.1 to 51 out of 100, #27 of 50 against #34. Missouri leads 4 of 11 categories, Kansas leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MissouriMO | KansasKS | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -6.3 | 15% | 38.3#39 · C | 44.6#28 · C+ | -6.3 pts | KS |
| Safety12% of scoregap +5.4 | 12% | 58.1#40 · C | 52.7#44 · D | +5.4 pts | MO |
| Health12% of scoregap -1.7 | 12% | 44.1#36 · C | 45.8#33 · C+ | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -3.5 | 12% | 59.7#27 · C+ | 63.2#21 · B | -3.5 pts | KS |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -3.3 | 10% | 79.8#14 · B+ | 83.1#10 · A | -3.3 pts | KS |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +13 | 8% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 52.4#37 · C | +13 pts | MO |
| Growth7% of scoregap +3.4 | 7% | 39.0#27 · C+ | 35.6#28 · C+ | +3.4 pts | MO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -9.6 | 7% | 46.1#34 · C+ | 55.7#11 · B+ | -9.6 pts | KS |
| Livability7% of scoregap +5.2 | 7% | 31.2#29 · C+ | 26.0#38 · C | +5.2 pts | MO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -15.4 | 6% | 15.0#34 · C+ | 30.4#22 · B | -15.4 pts | KS |
| Environment4% of scoregap -22.7 | 4% | 25.3#46 · D | 48.0#16 · B+ | -22.7 pts | KS |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Missouri cheaper than Kansas?
Missouri and Kansas cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 90.8 vs 90.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $4,596 more a year in Kansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.3 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | +2.3 pts+2% | 100 | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.07¢ (-7%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | -1.07¢-7% | 17.84¢/kWh | MO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.13 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | +$0.13+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.07 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | -$0.07-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,339 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | +$2,339+18% | $15,633 | KS |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$620 | +$35,531costs $39,469 | +$34,911costs $40,089 | +$620 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$417 | +$28,504costs $46,496 | +$28,087costs $46,912 | +$417 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$4,596 | -$6,088costs $81,087 | -$1,492costs $76,492 | -$4,596 | KS |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$392 | +$40,673costs $34,327 | +$40,281costs $34,719 | +$392 | Even |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$202 | $18,692 | $18,490 | +$202 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$4,678 | $30,160 | $25,482 | +$4,678 | KS |
| UtilitiesGap +$33 | $4,358 | $4,325 | +$33 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$259 | $10,846 | $10,587 | +$259 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$220 | $9,523 | $9,743 | -$220 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$357 | $7,508 | $7,865 | -$357 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Kansas?
Missouri collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.83% vs 9.33%. Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Kansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.5 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.12 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | +0.12 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.43 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.25 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -0.25 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Missouri or Kansas?
Homes cost 7% more in Missouri: a typical home value of $267,879 in Missouri vs $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of income in Missouri and $74,441 in Kansas; the median household earns $71,589 and $75,514.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,276 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$18,276+7% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$238 (+20%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$238+20% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$785 (-1%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | -$785-1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +0.4x+12% | 4.6x | KS |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| MO | KS | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,378 | $1,284 |
| Income needed vs. median | +3% | -1% |
| Five-year change | +26.2% | +30.3% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | St. Louis | Wichita |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Missouri or Kansas?
Kansas pays more: median household income $75,514 vs $71,589, with unemployment at 4% in Missouri and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$3,925 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$3,925-5% | $80,903 | KS |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,800 (-8%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | -$4,800-8% | $64,333 | KS |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.03 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.03 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | MO | KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,380$227,590 in Kansas City | $199,497$179,547 in Wichita | MO |
| Software Developers | $144,801$133,217 in St. Louis | $116,752$105,077 in Wichita | MO |
| Lawyers | $156,512$143,991 in St. Louis | $131,969$118,772 in Wichita | MO |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,455$102,539 in St. Louis | $90,707$81,636 in Wichita | MO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,375$101,545 in St. Louis | $94,007$84,606 in Wichita | MO |
| Registered Nurses | $94,050$86,526 in Kansas City | $80,040$72,036 in Wichita | MO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,009$74,528 in St. Louis | $67,242$60,518 in Wichita | MO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,655$80,643 in Kansas City | $75,076$67,568 in Wichita | MO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,968$70,811 in Kansas City | $64,636$58,172 in Wichita | MO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,834$64,247 in St. Louis | $57,868$52,081 in Wichita | MO |
| Civil Engineers | $102,498$94,298 in Kansas City | $90,729$81,656 in Wichita | MO |
| Electricians | $65,330$60,104 in St. Louis | $54,091$48,682 in Wichita | MO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,185$48,010 in St. Louis | $41,510$37,359 in Wichita | MO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,984$56,105 in Kansas City | $50,394$45,355 in Wichita | MO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,911$56,038 in St. Louis | $50,594$45,535 in Wichita | MO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,196$64,580 in Kansas City | $60,720$54,648 in Wichita | MO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,976$51,498 in St. Louis | $46,791$42,112 in Wichita | MO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,673$52,139 in Kansas City | $49,486$44,537 in Wichita | MO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,147$34,175 in St. Louis | $30,674$27,607 in Wichita | MO |
| Construction Laborers | $45,229$41,611 in Kansas City | $39,664$35,698 in Wichita | MO |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Missouri safer than Kansas?
Missouri is safer: 418 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,644 and 1,797 per 100,000.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -39 (-9%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -39-9% | 328 | MO |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -152 (-8%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | -152-8% | 1,535 | MO |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- O'Fallon, MO97 violent per 100K
- Leawood, KS71 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Missouri or Kansas?
Kansas scores higher for education (#21 of 50 vs #27), with high school graduation rates of 89.8% and 89.1%. They are close on health (#36 and #33); life expectancy is 75.2 years in Missouri and 76.5 in Kansas.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Adults with obesityGap -3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -3 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 7.6% | MO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KS |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- O'Fallon, MOeducation score 95.4
- Gardner, KSeducation score 95
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Missouri #27, Kansas #21. Health: Missouri #36, Kansas #33.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Kansas, or from Kansas to Missouri?
10,597 households moved from Missouri to Kansas and 12,138 moved from Kansas to Missouri in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,541 households for Missouri. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $65,210; movers to Missouri reported $68,985. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 21,660 people (±3,165) moving from Missouri to Kansas and 18,446 (±3,129) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +32,714 (+82%) | 72,481#19 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +32,714+82% | MO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +26,648 (+62%) | 69,687#30 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +26,648+62% | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +6,066 | +2,794#19 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +6,066 | MO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.5 | +0.4#23 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +1.5 | MO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,117 (+2%) | $65,825#38 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$1,117+2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,357 (+5%) | $71,544#29 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$3,357+5% | MO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 | +2.2#18 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +2.4 | MO |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Missouri or Kansas?
Kansas is the better fit for families, remote workers, and outdoor enthusiasts; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +8 places | #34score 60 | #26score 64.2 | +8 places | KS |
| RetireesGap +1 places | #32score 59.2 | #31score 59.6 | +1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +15 places | #33score 48.8 | #18score 55.7 | +15 places | KS |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +3 places | #32score 50.5 | #29score 52.1 | +3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -1 places | #26score 56.7 | #27score 53.7 | -1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +16 places | #41score 29.3 | #25score 45.2 | +16 places | KS |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKansas (#26 vs #34)
- RetireesEven (#32 vs #31)
- Remote WorkersKansas (#18 vs #33)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#32 vs #29)
- Small BusinessEven (#26 vs #27)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsKansas (#25 vs #41)
Which cities stand out in Missouri and Kansas?
Missouri has 20 tracked cities and Kansas has 20; the largest are Kansas City and Wichita. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MissouriMO | KansasKS |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Kansas City510,612 people | Wichita397,945 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Chesterfieldscore 70.5 | Leawoodscore 72.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | O'Fallon97 violent per 100K | Leawood71 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Joplincost index 85.7 | Salinacost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | University Citywalkability 14.4 of 20 | Salinawalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 37 | Dodge Citycounty median AQI 28 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | O'Fallon95.4% graduation rate | Gardner95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Wildwoodmedian income $161,060 | Leawoodmedian income $185,625 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wentzville+2% growth | Junction City+2.4% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Missouri and Kansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Missouri carries AAA credit rating and Kansas AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -45 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -45 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +3.2 (+8%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | +3.2+8% | 29.6 | KS |
| Public land shareGap +4.8 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +4.8 pts | 17.16% | MO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +4 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | MO |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 12.28% | MO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | KS |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.1 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +7.1 pts | 12.39% | MO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | MO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$200 (-9%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | -$200-9% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.5 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +3.5 pts | +4.66% | MO |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Missouri AAA, Kansas AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Missouri vs Kansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Missouri is ahead on 19 of 51, Kansas on 14, and 18 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MissouriMO | KansasKS | GapMO−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,293,321 (+111%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#18 of 50 | 3 million#34 of 50 | +3,293,321+111% | 6.8 million | MO |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,925 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$3,925-5% | $80,903 | KS |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.03 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.03 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,800 (-8%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | -$4,800-8% | $64,333 | KS |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -39 (-9%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -39-9% | 328 | MO |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -152 (-8%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | -152-8% | 1,535 | MO |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 235#35 of 50 | 237#29 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 212#38 of 50 | 213#34 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Adults with obesityGap -3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -3 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 7.6% | MO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,276 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | +$18,276+7% | $368,697 | KS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$238 (+20%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$238+20% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$785 (-1%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | -$785-1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +0.4x+12% | 4.6x | KS |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.07¢ (-7%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | -1.07¢-7% | 17.84¢/kWh | MO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.13 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | +$0.13+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.07 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | -$0.07-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.3 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | +2.3 pts+2% | 100 | KS |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,339 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | +$2,339+18% | $15,633 | KS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.5 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 8.74% | MO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.12 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | +0.12 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.43 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.25 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | -0.25 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.1 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +7.1 pts | 12.39% | MO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | MO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$200 (-9%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | -$200-9% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.5 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +3.5 pts | +4.66% | MO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KS |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -45 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -45 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +3.2 (+8%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | +3.2+8% | 29.6 | KS |
| Public land shareGap +4.8 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +4.8 pts | 17.16% | MO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +4 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | MO |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 12.28% | MO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | KS |
| Households moving inIRSGap +32,714 (+82%) · US 78,682 | 72,481#19 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +32,714+82% | 78,682 | MO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +26,648 (+62%) · US 78,715 | 69,687#30 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | +26,648+62% | 78,715 | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +6,066 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +6,066 | -33 | MO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.5 · US +0.4 | +0.4#23 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +1.5 | +0.4 | MO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,117 (+2%) · US $77,690 | $65,825#38 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | +$1,117+2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,357 (+5%) · US $77,024 | $71,544#29 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | +$3,357+5% | $77,024 | MO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 · US +1.1 | +2.2#18 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +2.4 | +1.1 | MO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$4,596 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | -$4,596 | -$11,758 | KS |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$620 · US +$31,418 | +$35,531#14 of 50 | +$34,911#16 of 50 | +$620 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$392 · US +$35,970 | +$40,673#11 of 50 | +$40,281#13 of 50 | +$392 | +$35,970 | Even |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Missouri and Kansas numbers say when read together.
Kansas ranks higher overall
Kansas leads 6 of the 11 categories to Missouri's 4, with 1 even; Missouri is ahead on fiscal health and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Missouri is ahead on 19 and Kansas on 14.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 90.8 in Missouri and 90.1 in Kansas, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $267,879 and $249,603. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 a year after typical costs in Missouri and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Missouri takes a smaller share in taxes
Missouri collects 7.83% of income in state and local taxes (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Kansas collects 9.33% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Kansas pays more
Median household income is $71,589 in Missouri and $75,514 in Kansas, with unemployment at 4% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 418 per 100,000 residents in Missouri and 457 in Kansas.
Moves between the two run about even
21,660 people moved from Missouri to Kansas and 18,446 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Kansas is the better fit for families
For families, Missouri ranks #34 of 50 and Kansas #26; for retirees, Missouri ranks #32 and Kansas #31.
Missouri vs Kansas: frequently asked questions
Is Missouri or Kansas better to live in?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.8 vs 90.1); Missouri has a 1.5-point lower tax burden and has a 9% lower violent crime rate. Kansas scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Missouri cheaper than Kansas?
Missouri and Kansas cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 90.8 vs 90.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$6,088 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Missouri, and -$1,492 in Kansas. The typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $249,603 in Kansas.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Kansas?
Missouri has the lower tax burden: 7.83% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.33% in Kansas. Missouri's top income tax rate is 5.7%, its effective property tax rate 0.91% and its combined sales tax 8.44%; Kansas's are 5.58%, 1.34% and 8.69%.
Is Missouri safer than Kansas?
Missouri is safer: 418 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas, per the FBI. Missouri ranks #41 of 50 for violent crime and Kansas #45. Property crime is 1,644 per 100,000 in Missouri and 1,797 in Kansas. The safest tracked cities are O'Fallon, MO, and Leawood, KS.
Are homes more expensive in Missouri or Kansas?
Homes are 7% more expensive in Missouri: the typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of household income in Missouri and $74,441 in Kansas, against median incomes of $71,589 and $75,514.
Do people earn more in Missouri or Kansas?
Kansas pays more: median household income is $75,514 vs $71,589 in Missouri, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Missouri and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Kansas or from Kansas to Missouri?
10,597 households moved from Missouri to Kansas and 12,138 moved from Kansas to Missouri in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,541 households for Missouri. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $65,210; movers to Missouri reported $68,985. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 21,660 people (±3,165) moving from Missouri to Kansas and 18,446 (±3,129) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Missouri or Kansas?
Missouri and Kansas are close for retirees: #32 and #31 of 50 on the retiree index. Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Kansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$40,673 left after typical costs in Missouri and +$40,281 in Kansas.
Which is better for families, Missouri or Kansas?
Kansas is the better fit for families: #26 of 50 on the families index vs #34 for Missouri. Center-based infant care costs $15,080 a year in Missouri and $12,741 in Kansas. High school graduation rates are 89.8% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 after typical costs in Missouri and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Is Kansas better than Missouri?
Yes: Kansas ranks higher than Missouri overall, #27 of 50 vs #34, with a composite score of 55.1 to 51. Kansas leads 6 of 11 categories and Missouri leads 4, including fiscal health and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Missouri vs Kansas.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (12,138 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).